Lions News: NFL.com names Detroit’s sleeper draft pick

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 26: Keith Abney II #DB01 of Arizona State speaks during a press conference at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 26, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images

As Detroit Lions fans continue to get to know the newest athletes to don the Honolulu bBlue, some analysts are already identifying potential standout rookies.

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In a recent article, NFL.com’s Gennaro Filice named Keith Abney II a sleeper for Detroit. The Arizona State cornerback was drafted in the fifth round this year at pick No. 157 as the Lions continue to bolster their secondary.

“Abney doesn’t blow you away with speed or size, but the 5-10, 187-pounder plays with an endearing chip on his shoulder, providing physicality and premium ball production,” Filice writes.

Abney played mostly outside corner in his two years starting for the Sun Devils, tallying 21 passes defended and five interceptions.

“His best NFL role could come in the nickel,” Filice said.

In an injury-prone position, Abney make have the opportunity to shine quickly. Our own Erik Schlitt has a full piece on how Abney could impact the Lions you should check out, but here’s an excerpt:

“Feisty in press man coverage, Abney will make you fight to get past him and into your route. That being said, he can get to physical once the receiver releases (13 penalties in the last two seasons as a starter), something he acknowledged that he is actively working on correcting. Abney has solid ball skills, and his competitive nature helps him get in position to fight for the ball when it’s in the air.

As a tackler, Abney shows strength in his technique and possesses a finisher’s mentality—something we‘ve said about several of the Lions draft picks in this class.”

And onto the rest of your notes.

  • Over on The Feed, user 4DBark is stirring up conversation, describing what they call “Post-Traumatic Lions Disorder” spurred by the recent talk of a new defensive scheme.

  • Outstanding from the Lions media team. Happy May!

  • Another amazing video from the Lions as they quiz new tackle Blake Miller … about Blake Miller. 

  • Running back Jahmyr Gibbs was in attendance for the Detroit Pistons’ playoff win on Tuesday night. Superstitious folk probably hope he’s back again Friday night.

  • Speaking of Gibbs:

  • The family of a member of the Lions fan community needs some help:

  • Former Lions Herman Moore and Scott Mitchell have teamed up for a new show called “Down & Dirty.”

  • A switch-up over at WXYZ — longtime sports director Brad Galli’s is leaving. Admittedly I became an instant fan he made fun of me within 5-10 minutes of meeting me years ago. Can’t wait to see what he does next, but it sounds like he isn’t going far and will likely continue covering the Lions.

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